Revit 2013 Update Release 3

Update Release 3 is not a full install; rather it is using service pack technology similar to AutoCAD®- based products. Prior to installing the Update Release 3, please verify that you have already installed the First Customer Ship build of Autodesk Revit 2013 (Build: 20120221_2030) or any of the Update Releases for Autodesk Revit 2013 (Update Release 1 Build: 20120716_1115 or Update Release 2 Build: 20121003_2115).

You can apply this update to Autodesk Revit 2013 running on all supported operating systems and languages. Consult the readme file for installation instructions and be sure to install the correct update (32-bit or 64-bit) for your software and operating system. Consult the enhancements documentation for areas improved by the Update Release.

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/item?siteID=123112&id=21891257&linkID=21208796

Source: Autodesk Site

Managing the Revit Server Accelerator Connection

You improve performance for server-based worksharing when you use a Revit Server Accelerator to connect to the Revit Servers that host your central models. Use this procedure to check the status of your connection to the Accelerator that has been assigned for your location (as specified in your system's RSACCELERATOR2013 environment variable) and to specify a different Accelerator when necessary. If you lose the network connection to a Revit Server Accelerator or choose not to use one, you will be directly connected to the Revit Servers.

Note: Typically a BIM manager or administrator specifies which Accelerators are available as well as the Revit Servers to which they can connect. See the Revit Server Installation Guide.

1. Click Collaborate tabSynchronize panel drop-down Manage Connection to Revit Server Accelerator.

2. In the Manage Connection to Revit Server Accelerator dialog, enter the server name or the IP address of the Accelerator.
Note: You cannot switch to a different Accelerator if multiple Revit sessions are open, a server-based central model is open, or the Accelerator is not available.

3. Click Connect.
When a valid connection is established, the successful connection status icon displays and the server name updates.

4. Click Close.

Source: Autodesk WikiHelp

Cannot Overwrite Central Model on Revit Server

Warning: You cannot overwrite a central model when it is located on the Revit server. If you need to replace the central model, contact your administrator for help.

Issue: Only an administrator can move or delete a central model.

Solution: Contact your administrator. See Removing a Model from a Revit Server.

Source: Autodesk WikiHelp

Revit Phasing in a renovation project

Recently I was involved to assist in a renovation project which makes use of phasing in Revit. Wow, I thought this is my chance to use the theoretical knowledge about phasing which I've learned 5 years ago from a Revit/CAD guru associate. At that time, he warned me about the pitfalls of using phasing in the Revit world and if I recalled correctly, he advised to use it carefully by deciding how many phases you need and define it within the "Phasing" control tab panel. This is an important step in phasing within Revit. Secondly, set up each individual view to reflect what you wish to show. While modeling the building, ensure that you are in the correct view which corresponds with the phase you are after too.

Going back to the renovation project that I am talking about, I dogged into the project file and the first thing that I noticed was, it deviates from the normal standard phasing method. The earlier team involved made use of the "filter" in Visibity Graphics Tab to control each phase view. Sadly to say, I thought to myself, this will create a big headache for the one who will continue the project. Sub phase and step code were introduced in the Phase attributes for each element (in Phasing-Phase Created Parameter). Just wondering why they did it. In the Phase tab the filter is already there waiting to be modified or use it out of the box.

Reorganizing the whole phasing will be a very painful task and I have a weekend to think it over.